System for the electrolytic production of hydrogen as a fuel for an internal combustion engine

ABSTRACT

A system for producing hydrogen gas fuel used in powering an internal combustion engine of a vehicle comprising a hydrogen reactor which includes at least one set of electrode plates comprising a plurality of neutral, positively charged and negatively charged plates disposed in a predetermined sequence or position relative to one another to define a predetermined stacked array submerged within water maintained in the hydrogen reactor. Metal particles disbursed within the water are forced through the plurality of electrode plates and structured to define an additional collection surface area, along with said plurality of electrode plates, on which hydrogen gas may be collected to facilitate increased production

RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to application PCT/US10/34633 filed May 13, 2010 which is a continuation in part of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/616.229 filed on Nov. 11, 2009 which in turn claims priority to provisional application Ser. No. 61/199.300 filed Nov. 14, 2008, all incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention is directed to a system for generating hydrogen gas, for use as a fuel or fuel supplement in an internal combustion engine by the electrolytic decomposition of water utilizing a hydrogen reactor structured to be mounted on and adapted to the operation of a variety of different sizes and styles of motor vehicles. Electrolysis is performed using water mixed with a sufficient quantity of metal particles, wherein the water and metal particles are concurrently directed under pressure between and along the length of one or more sets of electrode plates, each set of electrode plates comprising a plurality of neutral, positively charged and negatively charged plates disposed in a predetermined stacked array.

2. Description of the Related Art

The vast majority of motor vehicles utilized throughout the world are powered by multi-cylinder internal combustion engines which operate on conventional fossil fuel. Accordingly, the excessive world wide demand for gasoline, diesel fuel, etc. has placed an enormous burden on oil supplies and refining and other processing facilities. In turn, the enormous consumption of fossil fuel has threatened economic stability due to a consistently increasing demand for such fuel categories and a decreasing supply of natural oil reserves.

As a result, numerous attempts have been made to develop alternative energy sources which may be effectively, efficiently and economically used to fulfill the power demands of both commercially advanced societies and emerging countries, throughout the world. Such alternative energy sources include nuclear energy, solar energy, bio-fuels, etc. However, it is generally recognized that most, if not all of the contemplated alternative energy sources are subject to long term developmental periods and generally speaking would not result in a short term solution to current energy demands. In addition, many of the above noted alternative energy sources are objected to based on potential hazards to the natural environment as well as humans.

In addition to the above, there are existing energy sources which may be more specifically directed to the powering of passenger, commercial and cargo vehicles including fuel categories such as hydrogen, ethanol, bio-diesel, electrical power, etc. While potentially feasible, a very small percentage of vehicles in use today are designed and/or mechanically adaptable to be powered by such fuels. In addition, there has generally been a question of expense in converting conventional I.C. engines initially designed to run on fossil fuels such that the above noted fuels can be used on either an exclusive or hybrid basis. Further, the use of such alternative fuel sources also presents significant distribution problems in terms of making such fuels available to the millions of vehicles, currently in operation.

However, perhaps some of the most promising attempts to reduce the consumption of fossil fuel while maintaining the operational efficiency is the use of hydrogen in conventionally designed and structured internal combustion engines. More specifically, in the area of internal combustion engines significant research has been done to incorporate hydrogen and oxygen gases as a supplement to conventional fuels including both gasoline and diesel. However, many of such known or conventional attempts to perfect the use of hydrogen has resulted in generally inefficient systems which require unacceptable levels of energy to produce a sufficient yield in terms of operating performance whether used independently or as a conventional fuel supplement. Other significant disadvantages involved with the use of hydrogen as a fuel in an internal combustion engine for a vehicle are related to its extreme volatility resulting in the danger of an accidental ignition or explosion.

Further the storage of hydrogen on a vehicle rather than its generation based on demand would require that the stored hydrogen be maintained at very high pressures and accordingly requiring excessively heavy storage containers. In order to overcome the disadvantages and problems associated with the storage of hydrogen on the vehicle platform it has been proposed to generate hydrogen through electrolysis resulting in the electrolytic decomposition of the water and the generation of both hydrogen and oxygen. While such proposals have certain theoretical advantages, such as when hydrogen is used as a supplement for conventional fossil fuels, the facilities to accomplish hydrogen generation through electrolytic decomposition have generally been unsuccessful from an economic or efficiency stand point. Other disadvantages associated with electrolysis facilities include the tendency of the hydrogen and oxygen gases to accumulate on the surfaces of the electrode plates used in the electrolysis procedure. Such accumulation reduces the effectiveness of known or conventional electrolysis facilities by at least temporarily preventing large portions of the surfaces of the electrode plates from interacting with the electrolyte further resulting in an inconsistent generation of both hydrogen and oxygen.

Accordingly there is a need in the industry for an electrolysis system physically structured and dimensioned to be efficiently mounted on a vehicle platform which is capable of generating sufficient hydrogen and oxygen gases to interact, as a supplement, with conventional fossil fuels. As such, a preferred and proposed system would significantly reduce the consumption of conventional fuels while increasing fuel efficiency under acceptable operating conditions of the vehicles I.C. engine.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The system of the present invention is structured to efficiently and effectively generate sufficient quantities of hydrogen gas for use as a fuel or fuel supplement in a multi-cylinder internal combustion engine typically of the type used to power a variety of different motor vehicles. As such, the system may be installed as original equipment during the production of various types of vehicles. Alternatively, the system including the various operative components associated therewith may be installed in various type of vehicles as an after market product. In either situation, experimentation has indicated a significant increase in fuel efficiency during operation of the vehicle under various driving conditions based on a significant reduction in the consumption of the fossil fuel intended for use in powering the motor vehicle.

As set forth in greater detail hereinafter, the various preferred embodiments of the system of the present invention incorporate a hydrogen reactor mounted on the vehicle and structured to generate hydrogen through the electrolytic decomposition of water. The hydrogen reactor includes a casing structured to hold and maintain a sufficient quantity of water to submerge the electrode plates. Moreover, the electrode plates are arranged in at least one set, but more practically a plurality of sets of electrode plates disposed on the interior of the reactor casing. Further, each of the one or more sets of electrode plates comprises a plurality and/or predetermined number of neutral plates, positively charged plates and negatively charged plates disposed in a predetermined sequence or position relative to one another to define a “predetermined stacked array”. A comprehensive investigation has been conducted directed to a variance in the numbers and relative positions of the neutral, positively charged and negatively charged plates. This investigation included varying the number and sequential arrangement or relative positions of the electrode plates, while maintaining a space between the plates when submerged within the chamber of the hydrogen reactor during the electrolysis procedure.

In addition, at least one but more practically a plurality of jets or nozzle structures, are attached to the hydrogen reactor and disposed and structured to direct water under pressure into the interior of the chamber. The jets or nozzle structures are preferably equal in number to the number of sets of electrode plates and are disposed beneath different ones of the plurality of sets of electrode plates. As such, the water is forced from each jet, under pressure, between and along the length of the electrode plates of each set towards the surface of the water maintained in the casing of the hydrogen reactor. The force of the water issuing from the individual jets is sufficient to facilitate an effective “sweeping” of hydrogen collected on the electrode plates due to the electrolytic decomposition of the water during the electrolysis procedure. In the various preferred embodiments of the system of the present invention, the number of jets or nozzle structures may vary but is preferably equal in number to the plurality of sets of electrode plates. As such, the water is forced between and along the length of all of the plurality of plates defining a given set of electrode plates.

Another structural and operative feature of the present invention is the dispersion and/or mixing of a quantity of metal particles with the water in a manner which allows the issuance under pressure of the metal particles along with the water from each of the jets or nozzle structures. As such, the metal particles along with the water are forced from each of the nozzles or jets and pass between correspondingly disposed ones of the sets of electrode plates and accordingly, between the neutral, positively charged and negatively charged plates of each set. The charging of the electrode plates of each set will result in the metal particles being charged thereby providing additional surface area on which the hydrogen may be collected. It is also recognized that the hydrogen will collect on the various electrode plates. Moreover, due to the issuance of the metal particles combined with the water, under a predetermined or sufficient degree of pressure, the gases collected on the plates as well as the metal particles themselves will be swept to the upper surface of the water maintained within the chamber of the hydrogen reactor. Once the particles, with the hydrogen collected thereon, reaches the surface of the water, the hydrogen will disengage from the particles and the particles will remain, at least for the most part, within the water. The generated oxygen and hydrogen gases will then pass to a gas delivery assembly disposed in interconnecting, fluid communicating relation between the interior of the chamber of the hydrogen reactor and the intake manifold of the vehicle's internal combustion engine. In the meantime, the metal particles mixed with the water will re-circulate along with the water back into the reactor chamber.

The gas delivery assembly includes additional structural features comprising a plurality of gas outlets each of which deliver a stream of the generated hydrogen and oxygen gases to the intake manifold at different, spaced apart locations. This dual or multi-point delivery of the generated gases to the intake manifold is done for purposes of safety and is associated both upstream and downstream of an air flow inlet valve associated with the intake manifold. Eventually, the generated oxygen hydrogen gases are mixed with the air intake as well as the conventional fossil fuel for delivery to the combustion chambers of the vehicle's internal combustion chamber.

The preferred embodiments of the system of the present invention includes a main control assembly comprising appropriate control circuitry utilized to operate and/or regulate various sensors and parameter regulating components disposed and structured to facilitate efficient operation of the present system. Such sensors and regulating components include, but are not limited to temperature sensors, pressure sensors, vacuum sensors, float structures, etc. which are operatively associated with the various components of the internal combustion engine of the vehicle as well as the operative components of the hydrogen generating system. The main control assembly is also electrically connected to an appropriate electrical energy source, such as the conventional storage battery normally associated with motor vehicles. The main control assembly is further structured to regulate electrical current flow to the various operative components of the system of the present invention including, but not limited to, the plurality of electrode plates associated with each of the one or more sets of plates.

Further operation of the system is depended upon specific operative conditions which facilitate the efficient operation of the system of the present invention as well as safety and intended operation of the vehicle itself. Such conditions include the ignition and continued operation of the vehicle; vacuum associated with the intake manifold reaching a predetermined level; pressure within the casing of the hydrogen reactor being maintained at or below a predetermined level and the level of water maintained within the casing of the hydrogen reactor being sufficient to completely submerge of the plurality of plates of each of the one or more sets of electrode plates.

Thus, more specifically, according to the present invention there is now provided a system for producing hydrogen gas used in powering an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, said system comprising:

-   -   a hydrogen reactor comprising a chamber and at least one set of         electrode plates arranged in a predetermined stacked array         within said chamber,     -   said one set of electrode plates comprising a plurality of         neutral, positively charged and negatively charged plates         disposed in a predetermined spaced position relative to one         another to define said predetermined stacked array,     -   at least one jet disposed and structured to direct a flow of         water, under pressure, between and along a length of said         electrode plates within said chamber,     -   a quantity of metal particles mixed with said water for         increasing a collection surface area of generated gases, said         metal particles and said water concurrently directed by said at         least one jet between and along the length of said one set of         electrode plates,     -   said hydrogen reactor structured to produce hydrogen gas through         electrolytic decomposition of the water electrolyte, and     -   said plurality of neutral, positively and negatively charged         plates cooperatively disposed and structured with said plurality         of metal particles to facilitate increased production of         hydrogen gas.     -   The invention also provides a system as described above, wherein         said water includes potassium hydroxide.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention said hydrogen reactor comprises a plurality of sets of plates, each of said sets of plates comprising a plurality of neutral, positively charged and negatively charged plates disposed in spaced and predetermined position relative to one another to define said predetermined stacked array.

Preferably said system further comprises a plurality of jets each disposed and structured to direct a mixture of the water electrolyte and metal particles between and along a length of said plurality of neutral, positively charged and negatively charged plates of a different one of said plurality of sets of plates.

In a preferred embodiment said system comprises a quantity of water maintained within said chamber being of sufficient quantity to totally submerge said plurality of sets of electrode plates.

In a most preferred embodiment said mixture of water issuing from each of said jets is under sufficient pressure to sweep gas bubbles formed on said plurality of electrode plates of each of said set of electrode plates.

Also provided by the present invention is a system wherein gas formed on said metal particles is substantially separated there from upon exiting the water maintained within said chamber.

In another embodiment of the present invention the system further comprises a gas delivery assembly disposed in interconnecting, fluid communication between said chamber of said hydrogen reactor and an intake manifold of the internal combustion engine.

In a preferred embodiment, said gas delivery assembly includes a first gas outlet and a second gas outlet both disposed in gas delivering relation with the intake manifold.

In another preferred embodiment said first gas outlet is disposed to delivery gas from said hydrogen reactor to said intake manifold downstream of an intake valve associated with said intake manifold.

In a further preferred embodiment said second gas outlet is disposed to deliver gas from said hydrogen reactor to said intake manifold upstream of the intake valve associated with the intake manifold.

In an especially preferred embodiment said gas delivery assembly further comprises a particle separation assembly disposed along a path of travel between the chamber of the hydrogen reactor and the intake manifold, said particle separation assembly structured to remove water from gases entering the intake manifold.

In a most preferred embodiment said gas delivery assembly is disposed along said path of travel of said gases and structured to regulate gas flow into the intake manifold dependent, at least in part, upon vacuum levels within the intake manifold.

The present invention also provides a system comprising a main control assembly and the source of electrical energy, said main control assembly structured to regulate electrical current flow to said electrode plates arranged in a predetermined stacked array within said chamber of said hydrogen reactor.

Also provided by the present invention is a system as defined above in combination with an internal combustion engine and positioned to generate and delivery hydrogen and oxygen gases to an intake manifold of said internal combustion engine.

These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become clearer when the drawings as well as the detailed description are taken into consideration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a fuller understanding of the nature of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of one preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a detailed view in partial cutaway of the portion of the structural and operative features of the system of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2A is a detailed breakout view of a portion of the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 3 is yet another preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention incorporating the structural and operative features of the embodiments of

FIGS. 1 and 2 with the inclusion of an interconnection to an exhaust system of a vehicle on which the system of the embodiments of FIGS. 1, 2 and 2A is operatively installed.

Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

As schematically represented in the accompanying drawings and with primary reference to the preferred embodiment of FIGS. 1, 2, and 2A, the system of the present invention is generally indicated as 10 and is operative to generate hydrogen gas through electrolytic decomposition of water using an electrolysis structure and procedure. The versatility of system 10 is evident by its ability to be used as an original equipment installation during the construction and/or assembly of a motor vehicle. Alternatively, the system 10 can be incorporated as an after market installation in existing motor vehicles. Further, as structured, the system 10 is capable of generating both hydrogen and oxygen gases through the electrolytic decomposition of water, wherein hydrogen gas is generated in increased quantities in an efficient and safe manner. As such, the hydrogen and oxygen gases generated will be delivered to the intake manifold of the engine associated with the vehicle in a predetermined manner which emphasizes both safety and efficiency as it is mixed with the intake of air and conventional fossil fuel on which motor vehicle may normally run.

Accordingly the system 10 includes a hydrogen reactor generally indicated as 12 including a casing 14 structured to hold a predetermined quantity of water electrolyte. The water 17 is maintained in sufficient quantity on the interior of the chamber 14 to submerge at least one but more practically a plurality of sets of electrode plates 16 represented in greater detail in FIG. 2. As represented in these Figures, the sets of electrode plates 16 are four in number wherein each set includes a predetermined plurality of charged and neutral plates arranged in a “predetermined stacked array”. As explained in greater detail herein, the predetermined stacked array of each of the sets of electrode plates 16 is more specifically defined by a predetermined sequence or position of neutral plates, positively charged plates and negatively charged plates relative to one another and further disposed in spaced relation to one another so as to facilitate the generation of an increased quantity of hydrogen and the flow of the water therebetween and along the length thereof.

In addition the hydrogen reactor 12 includes at least one but more practically a plurality of jets or nozzle structures 18 equal in number to the number of sets of electrode plates 16. Further, each of the nozzles 18 are connected to or otherwise disposed to deliver a flow of water beneath different one of the plurality of sets of electrode plates 16 under pressure. The pressurized flow of water will therefore serve to force the water electrolyte between and along the plurality of individual electrode plates which define each of the plurality of electrode plate sets 16 as clearly represented in FIGS. 2 and 2A.

Another feature of the present invention is the inclusion of metal particles 20 schematically represented in FIG. 1 and in greater detail in FIG. 2A. Further, the metal particles 20 are disbursed throughout the water and are cooperatively dimensioned so as to be capable of being delivered, concurrently with the water, into the interior chamber 14 by the plurality of jets or nozzle structures 18. When delivered under a predetermined amount of pressure, the mixture of water and metal particles 20 issuing from respective ones of the jets or nozzle structures 18 pass upwardly through, between and along the length of each of the plurality of electrode plates defining each of the plurality of sets of electrode plates 16. As a result, the metal particles 20 become charged and serve to define additional surface area on which hydrogen gas may be collected. In addition, the hydrogen will also be collected on the various electrode plates. However, the provision of the metal particles 20 further increases the surface area on which the hydrogen gas may be collected once electrolytic decomposition of the water has been accomplished. As further represented, the number of jets or nozzles structure 18 is equal to that of the plurality of sets of electrode plates 16 and each of the nozzles or jet structures 18 are disposed to direct the mixture of water and metal particles 20 under pressure to a different one of the sets of electrode plates 16, as represented throughout the Figures.

As set forth in greater detail hereinafter, the plurality of electrode plates defining each set of electrode plates 16 comprises both neutral plates (N), positively charged plates (+) and negatively charged plates (−) in predetermined numbers and in a predetermined sequence or position relative to one another. As such all of the positive (+), negative (−) and neutral plates (N) are disposed in spaced relation to one another. As set forth above, this spaced relation facilitates the forced flow of combined water and metal particles 20 between and along the entire length of the electrode plates of each of the plurality of sets of electrode plates 16 and the resulting “sweeping” of collected gases from the surfaces thereof.

The number and preferred sequenced positioning of the charged and neutral plates will be discussed in greater detail hereinafter with reference to specific examples utilized by the inventors herein. Upon the formation of the oxygen and hydrogen gases due to the electrolytic decomposition, the gases will pass upwardly to the upper most surface 17′ of the water 17 in which the plurality of electrode plate sets 16 are submerged. At this location, the generated hydrogen/oxygen gas will pass into and along a path of travel defined by a gas delivery assembly generally indicated as 22. In order to reduce the possibility of water entering the conduit(s) or passages at least partially defining the gas delivery assembly 22, a splash guard 23 may be provided. Further, upon separation of the hydrogen gas from the metal particles 20, the mixture of metal particles 20 and water 17 will be re-circulated through an appropriately structured and disposed conduit or pathway 25 where it will pass to a circulation pump 27. The re-circulated mixture of water and metal particles will then pass through a cooling radiator generally indicated as 29 which serves to regulate the temperature of the mixture. From the cooling radiator 29, the re-circulated water and metal particles 20 will then pass through the individual jets or nozzle structures 18 for forced flow between and along the various sets of electrode plates 16, as set forth above. Accordingly, it is noted that the metal particles are dimensioned and configured to facilitate passage of the metal particles through and issuance from any of the jets 18.

Again with reference to the gas delivery system 22, a one way valve 30 is disposed along the path of travel and will prevent any back flow of oxygen and hydrogen gases from passing into the chamber 14. A safety factor is thereby added in order to prevent any damage to the hydrogen reactor 12 in the event of explosion, etc. Additional features associated with the gas delivery assembly 22 include the provision of a particle removal assembly 32 which may be in the form of a “bubbler”. The generated oxygen and hydrogen gas will pass through a body of water maintained within the bubbler 32 in order to facilitate the removal of any particles 20 remaining in collected association with the hydrogen bubbles. Accordingly, the bubbler 32 will assure that all particles 20 are removed from the hydrogen which will eventually pass into the intake manifold 34 as explained hereinafter. In addition, the particle removal assembly or “bubbler” 32 provides an additional safety feature by preventing any backflow or “back fire” from the engine and/or manifold 34 to the hydrogen reactor 12 due at least in part to the body of water maintained within the bubbler 32. Additional structural and operative features associated with the gas delivery assembly 22 is the provision of a water removal filter 36 which will assure that all water is removed from the oxygen and hydrogen gas generated by the hydrogen reactor 12 prior to passage thereof into the intake manifold 34.

Additional features associated with the gas delivery assembly 22 include the provision of a first gas outlet 40 and a second gas outlet 42 both comprising a gas nozzle or other appropriate gas delivery device. As represented throughout FIG. 1, the first gas outlet 40 serves to deliver generated gases into the intake manifold 34 downstream of an intake valve generally indicated as 44. In contrast, the second gas outlet 42 is disposed to deliver the generated gases to the intake manifold upstream of the intake valve 44 and in spaced relation to the first gas outlet 40. As a result, the generated oxygen and hydrogen gases will be fed both upstream and downstream of the intake valve 44 in order to avoid any extra build up of pressure of the generated gases within the intake manifold 34 or immediately prior to being delivered thereto. To this end a vacuum sensor 45 is electrically connected in operative relation to the main control facility generally indicated as 100 to assure that a proper degree of vacuum is present in the intake manifold 34 to accommodate the intake of the generated gases from either the first gas outlet 40 or the second gas outlet 42 and to avoid an accumulation or collection of the generated gases in the area of the intake manifold 34. Moreover, safety valves in the form of solenoid valves 46 and 46′ associated with and located downstream of the first and second gas outlets 40 and 42. The flow of generated gas may be restricted prior to entering the manifold valve 34 depended upon the proper operating conditions, such as an adequate amount of vacuum being maintained within the intake manifold as determined by the vacuum sensor 45. As also shown, proper adjustment valves 47 and 47′ may be utilized to preprogram and/or establish an appropriate flow of generated gases to each of the first and second gas outlets 40 and 42.

Additional features associated with the preferred embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2 include a reservoir of water 48 which holds a predetermined amount of water, preferably in the form of distilled water mixed with potassium hydroxide, as an additional catalyst. The reservoir 48 is connected by appropriate conduits or delivery channels 49 to the water circulation pump 27 wherein the flow from the reservoir 48 to the water circulation pump 27 and eventually into the interior of the casing 14 of the hydrogen reactor 12. The delivery of water from the reservoir 48 will be automatically controlled due to the provision of one or more safety valves, such as solenoid 51. As with the other valve and sensor structures the solenoid valve 51, the vacuum sensor 45, the water level sensor 52, the pressure sensor 53, etc. are all automatically regulated by and/or operatively associated with the main control facility 100.

As further represented, the main control facility 100 is electrically connected to an appropriate electrical energy source such as a storage battery 102 typically associated with motor vehicles. Therefore, the supply of electric current flow to each of the positively and negatively charged plates of each of the plurality of plate sets 16 is originated from the storage battery 102 or other source of electrical energy and current flow is regulated to these charged electrode plates by the main control facility 100. Associated therewith, the main control facility 100 is also operatively associated with the engine accelerator or gas pedal 104 which may include a micro switch assembly or other appropriate switching structure.

As set forth above, another operative and structural feature of the present invention and in particular, the hydrogen regulator 12 is the predetermined stacking of the plurality of neutral (N), positively (+) and negatively (−) charged electrode plates in each of the one or more sets of electrode plates 16. In order to determine a most efficient operative mode of the system 10, various examples were tested by the inventors herein to determine the most efficient production of generated gases caused by the electrolytic decomposition of the water, especially when mixed with the metal particles 20, as set forth above.

A typical system as described in FIGS. 1-3 may have components or ingredients with the following characteristics:

Concentration of potassium hydroxide in the reactor: 0.5-3 g/gallon of distilled water;

Metal particles in water: stainless steel (silver, copper or other materials that does not dissolve during the electrolysis process may be used as well) having a diameter in the range of 50 nm-0.5 mm. In the examples described below 44 micron stainless steel particles where used. Generally these particles must be small enough so they can flow freely between the plates and through the nozzles, but large enough to promote the formation of hydrogen or oxygen bubbles.

Pump 27 may be operating at about 100-1000 gal/hour. Typically it is set to operate at 550 gal/hour. The aqueous liquid in the reactor 14 is preferably maintained at a constant temperature of 32-212 degrees F. Preferably this temperature is about 120 degrees F. The heat exchanger 29 is selected to cool the circulating liquid at preferably at or below this temperature.

The plates 16 can be made of any suitable metallic material, such as stainless steel. For the examples given below, 3″33 9″33 1/16″ plates were used that were about 1/16″ spaced, however this distance may be changed as needed depending on the conductivity of the liquid in the reactor, the voltage applied to the plates, etc. The plates are supported inside the reactor by two stainless steel shaft (or screws that has been omitted from the drawings for the sake of clarity) that passes through the plates and is connected electrically to the negative and positive plates and insulated from the neutral plates. The plates are separated on the shaft by spacers made of plastic or other non-conductive materials. The shaft is supported within the reactor by non-conducting rings to position the plates as shown.

The reactor is sized and shaped to hold the plates and generally can be made of a non-conductive material such as plastic, PMMA, etc.

The bubblers 32, 110 may be filled water. The controller 100 receives information from the automobile computer indicating the fuel mixture demand (e.g., lean/rich) corresponding to the instantaneous load on the automobile engine. For example, when the automobile is accelerating or the going uphill, the engine requires a richer air/gasoline mixture then when the automobile is coasting, breaking, or going downhill. In response to this demand, the manifold receives an appropriate mixture of fresh air, gasoline, hydrogen and oxygen, as described. In addition, the processor 100 sends signals to the engine computer to change the position of the ignition to optimize the performance of the engine to the mixture. The presence of hydrogen and oxygen renders the engine much more efficient and the timing can be advanced to take advantage of this feature. Typically, for a 4 liter engine, the valves 47, 47′ are adjusted and the reactor and the plates are sized to generate and feed an H2, O2 mixture of about 3.8 liters when the engine is cruising at 2500 rpm. The invention has been tested on automobiles using regular 87 octane gas however it can be used with engines using other types of gas as well.

Examples

The following examples are given as particular embodiments of the system of the present invention to illustrate the efficient properties and operational modes as well as the practical advantages thereof.

Example 1

A hydrogen reactor was utilized which incorporated six plates arranged in the following sequence or relative position to define the aforementioned stacked array: Positive, Negative, Positive, Negative, Positive, Negative. The plates were subjected to a potassium hydroxide and water solution, wherein a 15 amp current was applied to the electrode plates from an electric storage battery. The result was the production of 150 ml of gases per minute.

Example 2

A hydrogen reactor was utilized which incorporated three plates arranged in the following sequence or relative position to define the aforementioned stacked array: Positive. Neutral, Negative. The plates were subjected to a potassium hydroxide and water solution wherein a 15 amp current was applied to the electrode plates from a 12 volt electric storage battery. The result was the production of approximately 250 ml of gases per minute.

Example 3

A hydrogen reactor was utilized which incorporated four plates arranged in the following sequence or relative position to define the aforementioned stacked array: Positive, Neutral, Neutral, Negative. The plates were subjected to a potassium hydroxide and water solution wherein a 15 amp current was applied to the electrode plates from a 12 volt electric storage battery. The result was the production of approximately 350 ml of gases per minute.

Example 4

A hydrogen reactor was utilized which incorporated six plates arranged in the following sequence or relative position to define the aforementioned stacked array: Positive, Positive, Neutral, Neutral, Negative, Negative. The plates were subjected to a potassium hydroxide and water solution, wherein a 15 amp current was applied to the electrode plates from a 12 volt electric storage battery. The result was the production of approximately 500 ml of gases per minute.

Example 5

A hydrogen reactor was utilized which incorporated six plates arranged in the following sequence or relative position to define the aforementioned stacked array: Positive, Positive, Neutral, Neutral, Negative, Negative. The plates were subjected to a potassium hydroxide and water solution and a pressurized circulation of this solution was established in an upward direction through and between the plates. A 15 amp current was applied to the electrode plates from a 12 volt electric storage battery. The result was the production of approximately 700 ml of gases per minute.

Example 6

A hydrogen reactor was utilized which incorporated six plates arranged in the following sequence or relative position to define the aforementioned stacked array: Positive, Positive, Neutral, Neutral, Negative, Negative. The plates were subjected to a potassium hydroxide and water solution mixed with metal particles which was directed between the plates under pressure. A 15 amp current was applied to the electrode plates from a 12 volt electric storage battery. The result was the production of approximately 1200 ml of gases per minute.

Example 7

A hydrogen reactor was utilized which incorporated six plates arranged in the following sequence or relative position to define the aforementioned stacked array: Positive, Positive, Neutral, Neutral, Negative, Negative. The plates were subjected to a potassium hydroxide and water solution mixed with metal particles which was directed between the plates under pressure. A 15 amp current was applied to the electrode plates from a 12 volt electric storage battery. The result was the production of approximately 1200 ml of gases per minute. This embodiment of the reactor of the hydrogen reactor was incorporated in the total system 10 and installed on 4.0 liter vehicle, resulting in approximately 50% of fuel savings and 200% more miles of operation for the same amount of fossil fuel.

Yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention is represented in FIG. 3 wherein the system is generally indicated in its entirety as 10′. More specifically, the system 10′ includes substantially all of the features of the embodiment of the system 10 as disclosed in FIGS. 1, 2 and 2A as well as additional structural and operative modifications. More specifically, system 10′ includes a connection an at least partial interaction of the hydrogen reactor 12 with the exhaust system of the engine, generally indicated as 106. As such, exhaust gases from the exhaust system 106 pass through an appropriate conduit(s) or pathway 108 into a cooling zone 110 in the form of a “bubbler” 110. The bubbler 110 is similar in operation and structure to the bubbler 32 serving as a particle removal assembly, as described with reference to the embodiment of FIG. 1. However, the bubbler 110 at least partially differs in operation in that it is structured to regulate or reduce the temperature of the exhaust gases to an appropriate level as well as possibly providing a scrubbing action on the exhaust action prior to it reaching the hydrogen reactor. In addition the bubbler 110 may also provide an additional factor by preventing backflow along the pathway 108.

A temperature sensor assembly 112 is disposed as represented in FIG. 3 and connected to and operated by the main control assembly 100. As with the embodiment of FIG. 1, the main control assembly is preferably connected so as to operate in conjunction with the computer of the vehicle as at 120 schematically represented in FIG. 3. Continuing on with the exhaust system 106, collected exhaust gases are channeled through the conduit 108 through the cooling zone 110. An appropriate splash guard 23 or other structure is disposed along the path of travel of the exhaust gases in order to eliminate the passage of water therewith,

Similarly, a water removal filter or like structure 36′ is further provided in order to eliminate excess water passing along the exhaust gas. Appropriate control valves in the form of solenoid valves 122 is provided along the path of travel and serves to regulate passage of exhaust gases along the conduit or path of travel 108 into the casing 14 of the hydrogen reactor 12. A one-way valve 30′ is also provided along the path of travel defined by conduit 108 in order to prevent the back flow of exhaust gases through the originating portions of the conduit 108 and path of travel defined thereby. As further represented in FIG. 3, the conduit and/or path of travel 108 serve to deliver the exhaust gas under pressure into the interior of the casing 114 of the hydrogen generator 12. As such, the circulation or flow of both water and particles issuing from the jets or nozzle structures 18 through, between and along the plurality of sets of plates 16 is facilitated. This in turn aids in the sweeping of the plates, as set forth above, and the travel of the particles 20 with the hydrogen collected thereon above the surface 17′ of the water 17 into the open hollow interior. As also set forth above, this location is where the oxygen and hydrogen gases are released into the gas delivery system 22.

Yet additional features of the system 10′ as represented in FIG. 3 is the inclusion of a venturi assembly 42′ which serves to deliver generated gas from the gas delivery assembly 22 to the intake manifold 34. As should be apparent, the venturi assembly 42′ may be used instead of the second gas outlet 42. Moreover, the venturi assembly 42′ serves to draw generated gas into the air intake up stream of the intake valve 44, due to the flow of intake air passing in fluid communication therewith, into the intake manifold. Accordingly, in the embodiment of the system of FIG. 3, the venturi assembly 42 will be considered as the second gas outlet and is disposed and structured to deliver the generated gases to the intake manifold 34 upstream of the intake valve 44 and in spaced relation to the first gas outlet 40. As a result, the generated oxygen and hydrogen gases will be fed both upstream and downstream of the intake valve 44 in order to avoid any excessive build up of pressure of the generated gases within the intake manifold 34 or immediately prior to being delivered thereto.

Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail can be made to the described preferred embodiment of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents. Now that the invention has been described, 

1. A system for producing hydrogen gas used in powering an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, said system comprising: a hydrogen reactor having a chamber and a set of electrode plates arranged in a predetermined stacked array within said chamber, said electrode plates including a plurality of positively charged and negatively charged plates disposed in a predetermined spaced position relative to one another to define said predetermined stacked array, an electrolyte source directing a jet of electrolyte between said set of electrode plates, said electrolyte including water and metallic particles suspended in said water, whereby said hydrogen reactor produces hydrogen gas through electrolytic decomposition of the water.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein said water includes potassium hydroxide.
 3. The system of claim 1 wherein said hydrogen reactor comprises a plurality of sets of plates, each of said sets of plates comprising a plurality of positively charged and negatively charged plates disposed in spaced and predetermined position relative to one another to define said predetermined stacked array.
 4. The system of claim 3 further comprising a plurality of nozzles, each of which is disposed and structured to direct respective jets of electrolyte between said plurality of plates.
 5. The system of claim 1 further comprising a DC power supply connected to at least some of said plates to charge to them to one of a positive and negative polarity.
 6. The system of claim 5 wherein at least one plate of said set has a neutral polarity.
 7. The system of claim 1 further a nozzle directing said electrolyte wherein said electrolyte is under sufficient pressure to sweep gas bubbles formed on said plurality of electrode plates of each of said set of electrode plates.
 8. The system of claim 1 wherein said reactor is configured to generate oxygen and hydrogen, said reactor further including a separator that separates said gases from said electrolyte.
 9. The system of claim 1 further comprising an electrolyte circulator circulating said electrolyte through said hydrogen reactor.
 10. The system of claim 1 further comprising a temperature controller maintaining a temperature of said electrolyte at a predetermined level.
 11. The system of claim 1 wherein said temperature is maintained at about 125 degrees F.
 12. The system of claim 1 wherein said electrolyte is a mixture of distilled water and hydrogen peroxide at a concentration in the range of 0.5-3 g/gal.
 13. The system of claim 1 wherein said metallic particles are made of one of stainless steel, gold and silver.
 14. The system of claim 1 wherein said metallic particles have a diameter in the range of 50 nm-0.5 mm.
 15. A system for generating a mixture of oxygen and hydrogen for enriching the fuel in an internal combustion engine by injecting said mixture into an intake manifold of said engine while said engine is running, said system comprising: A reactor formed of a closed chamber, a plurality of parallel plates secured within said chamber, an electrolyte inlet, electrolyte outlet and a gas mixture outlet; a circulator connected to said electrolyte inlet and electrolyte outlet and circulating therebetween an eletrcolyte formed of a water, hydrogen peroxide and a plurality metallic particles sized and shaped to promote the formation of gas bubbles as said electrolyte flows between said plates; and an electric power source connected to some of said plates to charge said plates to one of a positive and negative polarity; wherein a gas mixture of hydrogen and oxygen is collected at said outlet, said gas mixture resulting from the electrolysis of said electrolyte between said plates.
 16. The system of claim 15 wherein some of said plate remain neutral.
 17. The system of claim 15 wherein said reactor, circulator and power source are sized and shaped for mounting on said engine. 